https://nauathletics.com/news/2018/1...ead-coach.aspx

It is with great excitement that I write to inform you that earlier today Chris Ball was offered and has enthusiastically accepted the position of Head Football Coach at Northern Arizona University. Coach Ball will be leaving the University of Memphis where he serves as Defensive Coordinator. He has a background which proves his ability to effectively recruit in the state of Arizona and the West Coast.

President Cheng, provided very clear direction – find the best football coach for NAU who is genuinely dedicated to the student-athletes he coaches, mentors, and guides through this very important time in their lives. Additionally, she asked that I find someone who can instill the blueprint and culture necessary to make NAU football a sustainable championship contender. In Chris Ball, I am confident that we have met/achieved the President's goals.

This was a very comprehensive search, which included the use of a professional consultant. Over the past twenty-one days we have considered an extensive list of interested candidates and interviewed several. We have been impressed by the level of interest and the quality of the candidates and believe this can be attributed to a national perception that NAU Football can become a nationally competitive program on a consistent basis.

More information will be shared over the next several days regarding a press conference and community events to introduce you to Coach Ball. In the meantime, he will be very busy engaging with the team, recruiting and assembling his staff.

Thank you for your support and interest in NAU Athletics!